The time to prepare for the thrill of seeing nectarloving visitors in local backyards is now. Although other western hummingbirds can be spotted, the Ruby-throated or Archilochus Colubris Hummingbird is most commonly observed in Missouri and is venturing to the area. “They usually arrive in Missouri to nest from early to mid-April, but that can vary considerably from year to year, depending on weather,” states the University of Missouri Extension (MUE). “Ruby-throated hummingbird migration in Missouri typically peaks in early May and again in mid to late September.” This tiny bird has a long needle-like bill and hovers or flies forward and backward with a humming sound. They also make a variety of squeals, chips and twitters. “The male birds have metallic green upperparts; a red throat (gorget) that flashes ruby red in the light but otherwise may look black; underparts whitish with dull green flanks; black and deeply forked tail; and the side of the head below the eye is black…